Though it is tough for woodworking, some artisans favor dogwood for small projects such as walking canes, arrow making, mountain dulcimers and fine inlays. The common dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) is one of many species in the dogwood family having several impressive medicinal properties. List of various diseases cured by Jamaican Dogwood. Overall, when it comes to dogwood and its use for health purposes, it might be wise to check with your doctor first about safety, possible interactions and recommended intake and maintain constant contact throughout your treatment period. If space allows, the white can be accentuated with a background of conifers. UVA has another member on the team, but he’s not on the payroll. Cornus sericea (Red osier dogwood) Mainly a higher mountain shrub in the West, Red osier gets little medicinal attention these days…even in the past it was a folk medicine of folk medicines. Be sure to plant with the root collar or top of the root ball level with the soil surface — not a bit deeper! Best soil is a cool, acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.6) loam with a high percentage of organic matter. Stellar pink dogwood is a type of pink dogwood bred to be resistant to fungal disease. Emerald Ash Borer: Important Response to a Slow-Moving Catastrophe, Cambium Carbon Cuts Waste, Builds Green Future, New Collaborative Approaches Drive Natural Climate Solutions, Sites where soil compaction is unavoidable, Soil that becomes excessively dry in summer, Sites exposed to salt spray or air pollution problems, Excessively hot sites such as parking lots. Ethnobotanic: Flowering dogwood root bark was used by Native Americans as a fever reducer, skin astringent, an antidiarrheal agent, and as a pain reliever for headaches, sores, and muscle inflammations. Comments: Dogwood has excellent shock resistance, and is one of the hardest domestic woods of the United States or Canada. Wounds predispose this species this species to invastion by dogwood borers. Nevertheless, all dogwood preparations (dogwood, common dogwood, American dogwood and Jamaican dogwood) should be taken under the careful supervision of a medical professional because of the health risks that may arise from ingesting too much berries, decoctions, tincture etc. Grows to 20 feet tall, with a wide, 20- to 30-foot canopy. Traditional Chinese medicine uses dogwood fruit to stabilize and tonify the kidney and liver. Uses. American dogwood bark is still used today as medicine, but not very often. Shade over a deck or patio can also be a good use, and as a bonus the winter berries will attract birds to within viewing range. Historically, people made medicine from the bark. Your questions about fall planting answered! In a small, intimate space where an enclosed feeling is desired, the spreading branches of dogwood can provide a pleasant “roof.”  (Some pruning of the lowest branches might be necessary for this use.) View photos of the medicinal plant Cornus sericea (Red osier dogwood), profiled in Medicinal Plants of the Western Mountain States. The reason why the common dogwood is a preferred garden plant is because its branches turn yellow-orange with red tips in winter, a rather unusual coloring for any leafless plant during the cold season. The species is used extensively in herbal medicine for the purpose of stimulating digestion, as a natural antipyretic or fever reducing agent as well as for inducing vomiting. Under the best of conditions, the growth rate of this tree is considered “medium.”. In addition, sedative and narcotic activities have been documented following preclinical studies, thus supporting the reputed herbal uses. A drink similar to tea can be made from the bark to treat pain and fevers, while the leaves can be made into a poultice to cover wounds. The common dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) is one of many species in the dogwood family having several impressive medicinal properties. Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida). The Kousa fruit treats symptoms of weak kidney such as dizziness, body pain, and impotence. Research has shown that infected trees can be saved by pruning and destroying infected branches. Antidiarrheal & antimalarial activity For example, common dogwood leaves, bark, twigs and roots contain aucubin, an iridoid glycoside, as well as tannins. Fresh and dried flowers are prepared into herbal infusions and used for lowering fever in both children and adults. American dogwood bark has antipyretic action which helps to lower fever naturally. This herb is also used as a sedative that increases the quality and quantity of sleep. Names of Jamaican Dogwood in various languages of … The wood from the dogwood tree was used to make toothbrushes, daggers and arrows. A million members, donors, and partners support our programs to make our world greener and healthier. 4. Spring flowers attract butterflies, followed by clusters of bright red berries that attract birds. Accent Tree:  Sometimes a specimen tree (see below) can be placed effectively among a mass of lesser plant material. Planting in this way also protects dogwood’s compaction-sensitive roots. The blossoms of dogwood add a welcome touch of color in early spring. America's founding fathers were big dogwood fans. Pivot Point:  Dogwood is a visually pleasing tree to use at a point where two linear flower or ground cover beds form a right angle. Dogwood Uses. The purpose for this was to help clear the contents of one’s stomach and expel potentially harmful foods (toxic or poisonous foods). So there are many reasons to plant a Cornus in your garden. However, considering the evolution of medicine, it might be wise to address a medical professional if you suspect having consumed contaminated or improperly stored food. The scientific genus name, Cornus, derives from the Latin, cornu, or horn, in reference to another use of its hard wood. Peattie says that the biggest user of dogwood in the last century, however, was the textile industry. The bark was simmered in water and used on aching muscles and a bark tea was used to promote sweating and break a fever. Apparently, common dogwood berries are not toxic (poisonous), however, they are not very palatable either and have a rather high tannin content which renders them inedible in raw form. It was also used to counteract the effects of many poisons and as a general tonic for unspecified ailments. UVA Health uses CoMET to fight the pandemic and monitor patients. Support My Work Copyright © 2014-2021 NatureWord. These strong trees have various features that make them well loved with those having vast estates and gardens. Dogwood and its berries are a useful remedy for skin problems and fever. What does common dogwood look like and where can it be found? The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Dogwood is a shrub belonging to the Cornaceae family and is characterized by its red or yellow berries, very similar to cherries. Jamaican dogwood is used as anti-anxiety and anti-depressant that calms the brain and elevates moods. It has a cooling effect and also improves the concentration power. – Chaucer used the term “whippletree” to refer to the Dogwood, which is the name for the piece of wood connecting the horse’s harness to the drag pole of a cart. Tannins are bitter and astringent plant compounds which make fruit such as dogberries too tart for consumption. It is in flower from May to June. Such varieties are called ‘winter fire’. Avoid: In recent years, dogwoods have been planted in harsh sites where stress predisposes them to a variety of diseases. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can … Its toughness is appreciated in a variety of applications, though its poor dimensional stability means that its use is usually restricted to … Uses of dogwood The bark of all Cornus species are rich in tannins and have been used in traditional medicine as a substitute for quinine - a drug that’s used to treat malaria and babesiosis. Cooked dogberries however are said to be edible. The first is a native tree and the one you most likely think of when picturing this plant. Cornus florida, the flowering dogwood, is a species of flowering tree in the family Cornaceae native to eastern North America and northern Mexico.An endemic population once spanned from southernmost coastal Maine south to northern Florida and west to the Mississippi River. The fruits of the common dogwood also grow in clusters and are known as ‘dogberries’. You can reach her at [email protected]. The dogwood name is derived from "dagwood," which refers to the trees' earliest use as material for making daggers and swords. Contact Us – Disclaimer Cookies Policy – Privacy Policy, Properties and Benefits of Common Dogwood. Most dogwood varieties also develop very decorative fruit in late summer and autumn. The species is used extensively in herbal medicine for the purpose of stimulating digestion, as a natural antipyretic or fever reducing agent as well as for inducing vomiting. Specimen Tree:  A specimen tree is a free-standing element in a landscape design. Dogwood anthracnose is a troubling disease that has become nearly epidemic since the late 1970s. In this usage it is called an accent tree. The early spring blooms of the dogwood were a signal to them to plant corn. The tendency of its wood to not … Look for varieties resistant to anthracnose fungal disease. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Remember that some dogwood species are toxic. What are the Therapeutic Uses of Jamaican Dogwood? There are various kinds of Dogwood trees but basically three main types. Leaves turn glowing red in fall, with fruit lasting into winter. Viewed from Above:  Branching structure and the delightful way blossoms are borne upward on the branches make this a good choice to plant beneath balconies, high porches, and room windows that look downward on the landscape. The tiny four-petaled cream-colored flowers have four upright stamens and are disposed as a cross. Find out below what are the 4 main uses of common dogwood preparations: It would appear that preparations made from the berries and bark of the common dogwood boast rather impressive antipyretic properties, helping reduce fever naturally. Picturesque ornamentals are selected for this role – standing alone like a piece of fine sculpture to be viewed from all sides. Dogwoods are native to North America and are also native to Asia and Europe. With good coaling qualities and the ability to produce around 24.8 million BTUs per cord, dogwood firewood is prized among many people who heat their home with firewood. The tendency of its wood to not splinter made it popular for this purpose. However, it can tolerate both heavier soils or lighter, sandy soils if other conditions are right. Learn how your comment data is processed. Zones 5 to 8. Amie Knowles Amie has been in journalism four years, winning multiple awards from the Virginia Press Association for news and features content. Dogwood Trees in The Landscape. Also, limit intake to amounts recommended by your doctor in order to avoid any possible complications or side effects. Dark green leaves, 3 to 6 inches long, turn an attractive red in fall. Flowering dogwood has a low-branching habit with a flattish crown. The common dogwood is a shrub primarily grown for ornamental purposes. When consumed in small amounts, common dogwood berries or preparations exhibit antimicrobial activity, support liver health, reduce inflammation and promote wound healing of mouth lesions especially. We inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. They grow in small clusters and leave room for single-seeded dark-blue round berries later on. The dense, hard wood of dogwood trees was used in the 19th century to make weaving shuttles for textile mills. For all the beauty of this tree, the common name of dogwood may come from something less lovely – “dagger.”  This, in turn, may actually come from its early use as a skewer, or thin piece of wood used to hold meat together. Uses, Benefits, Cures, Side Effects, Nutrients in Jamaican Dogwood. Use 2 to 4 inches of wood chip mulch to help keep the soil cool and moist, and to reduce compaction. Rake and dispose of leaves in autumn to help sanitize the area. North American native is a problem solver: durable groundcover that can handle woodland shade; tolerates always moist, acid soil and isn’t fazed by winter’s wickedly cold conditions. Uses of a Flowering Dogwood Tree Flowering dogwood trees are mostly used for landscaping purposes, as the beauty of this tree is spellbinding. Food Use Jamaica dogwood is characterised by various isoflavone constituents, to which the antispasmodic properties described for the wood have been attributed. It becomes a focal point for viewing and adds to the beauty of the entire ensemble of plants. Saws or shears should be sanitized in Clorox or a similar solution after infected trees are pruned. CHARLOTTESVILLE – Since July, doctors and nurses at University of Virginia Health haven’t been the only ones monitoring COVID-19 positive patients. It is hardy to zone (UK) 2 and is not frost tender. The berries and bark of the common dogwood bear great medicinal value and have been long recognized as potent herbal treatments for various conditions. It’s like a classic dogwood, only in miniature! These five great dogwood tree picks offer food, shelter and more! Herb: Red Osier Dogwood Latin name: Cornus sericea Synonyms: Cornus alba, Cornus stolonifera, Swida stolonifera, Thelycrania stolonifera Family: Cornaceae (Dogwood Family) Medicinal use of Red Osier Dogwood: Red osier dogwood was widely employed by several native North American Indian tribes who valued it especially for its astringent and tonic bark, … Five Types of Dogwood Trees. Peattie says dogwood is also used to make mauls, mallet heads and wedges. Founded in 1972, the...Read More, Top 5 Apple Trees Sold Through the Arbor Day Tree Nursery, John Royster, Landscape Architect – Omaha, Nebraska. The wood from the dogwood tree is very dense and heavy making it a great firewood choice. Common dogwood preparations have also been used as a natural emetic, to induce vomiting. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. However, for safety reasons, it is important to avoid making your own dogwood preparations because dogwood species look a lot alike and it’s extremely easy to mistake a tree variety that is safe for use with one that is toxic. This is a good specimen tree for a location with acidic soil and afternoon shade. It is also one of my favorites and one I use quite often in my landscape designs for clients. The species name, florida, is also from Latin, flos, meaning flowery. For all the beauty of this tree, the common name of dogwood may come from something less lovely – “dagger.” This, in turn, may actually come from its early use as a skewer, or thin piece of wood used to hold meat together. Vaccine Stories. It nourishes the kidney of its deficiencies and restores the organ to revitalize its essence. Writer-naturalist Donald Peattie once wrote, “Lovely as it is, dogwood stoops also to be useful.”. These are the Flowering Dogwood, Kousa, and hybrids. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Uses for the red twig dogwood The red twig dogwood is an ornamental plant that is used commonly in hedges and rock gardens. The wood wore smoothly and didn’t crack under strenuous use. Common dogwood berries have been found to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective and wound healing properties. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Jamaican dogwood is a tree. It is recommended to ask the advice of an expert or, even better, get your dogwood preparation from a health food store, pharmacy etc. The tree is commonly planted as an ornamental in residential and public areas because of its showy … However, various parts of the plant contain several compounds with potentially harmful side effects which is why precaution is required when taking common dogwood preparations. Cornus sericea is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 4 m (13ft) at a fast rate. George Washington planted them at Mount Vernon and Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. Are common dogwood berries edible or toxic? It is little used in modern herbalism. Traditional medical practices recommend eating a small amount of fruit for a better digestion. It can reach heights of around 5-6 meters and can be found throughout Europe, Western Asia and the temperate regions of the American continent, both in gardens and in the wild, at forest edges, on river banks and so on. Writer-naturalist Donald Peattie once wrote, “Lovely as it is, dogwood stoops also to be useful.” What’s in a Name? People use Jamaican dogwood for anxiety, sleep problems, nerve pain, migraine, and … Most other dogwoods bear white blooms. When you plant numerous dogwood trees, they should be separated by a distance of at least five times the width of the root ball in acidic soil. This species and the Pacific dogwood are prone to dogwood anthracnose, which can be controlled by pruning away affected branches. Common Uses: Golf club heads, textile shuttles, bows (archery), mallets, pulleys, and turned objects. Eating too many may result in an upset stomach and other unpleasant gastrointestinal problems. Medicinal use of Flowering Dogwood: Flowering dogwood was employed medicinally by a number of native North American Indian tribes who valued it especially for its astringent and antiperiodic properties. These two compounds can cause gastrointestinal problems (abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting) or skin and stomach irritation when moderately large amounts of berries or plant preparations are consumed. Cornus kousa is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a slow rate. As such, the cornus fruit maintains general urogenital health. The root bark is used to make medicine. The species has elongated, oval green leaves, slightly lighter below and dark green-brown branches which lose their foliage in the cold season. The dried root-bark is antiperiodic, astringent, diaphoretic, mildly stimulant and tonic. What do common dogwood berries taste like? This plant grows spontaneously on the Italian territory, particularly in pre-mountain areas. Get your dogwood preparations from a pharmacy or a store specialized in natural preparations from medicinal plants. Although the flowers are small and grow in flat clusters, they are lovely when they appear and the berries that form in the fall and winter are highly decorative in either white or blue colors. Aucubin, a compound found in dogberries, possesses several great medicinal properties. Extreme care is necessary to prevent trunk damage such as from construction, lawn mowers or weed cutters. In addition to planting only on proper sites, here are some suggestions to keep flowering dogwoods healthy. How to Plant and Care for Flowering Dogwood, When planting flowering dogwood, careful site selection and some attention to regular care will be rewarded with an addition to the landscape that provides long-lasting, four-season beauty around the home, business or in lightly used areas of parks. The wood can be somewhat difficult to split. Common dogwood preparations may help improve digestion. Can be planted in shade or partial shade, but full sun helps prevent dogwood anthracnos fungus. This white flowering dogwood tree (Cornus florida) can grow up to 33 ft tall and like moist soil that is slightly acidic. Dogwood lumber is rare in that it is not readily available with any manufacturer and must be cut down by the … How Jamaican Dogwood is effective for various diseases is listed in repertory format. They represent an essential food source for numerous bird species. ... Amie Knowles reports for Dogwood. Let’s discover all its properties and uses in the kitchen. Planting as described above can help prevent this disease. It is hardy to zone (UK) 5. Shop my favorite things: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mikereedoutdoors Use my code MIKER67 at https://www.indestructibleshoes.com for 20% off your purchase. Stress-related disorders. American dogwood is a tree. – Dogwoods have been used medicinally for generations; the bark is rich in tannins, so ground bark or leaves are used to treat pain, fevers, backaches, dizziness, weakness, excessive sweating, uterine … Bright autumn foliage and red berries that linger into winter add a bold stroke of color to any landscape design. 1. Ceremony: The leaves of some varieties of Dogwood were used in smoking mixtures including Red Osier dogwood (C. stolonifera) and the C. rugosa type of dogwood. In small spaces where there is little foot traffic or where a mulch bed can prevent soil compaction, a dogwood tree can serve this purpose. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen from September to October. Dogwoods and Native American Uses Native Americans found a wide range of uses for the dogwood tree. The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit conservation and education organization. Dogwood wood is an excellent substitute for persimmon wood in the heads of certain golf clubs ("woods"). Amie Knowles reports for Dogwood.

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